Susan M. Fritz, Ph.D. served as interim president of the University of Nebraska from August 16 to December 31, 2019. She was the first woman to lead the NU system in its 51-year history.

Welcome to the University of Nebraska – the state’s only public university, home to 52,000 students and 14,000 talented faculty and staff working to transform our state through education, research and outreach. I am honored to be a part of this great institution. I believe the people, places and opportunities connected to the University of Nebraska are as special as you’ll find anywhere.

"The University of Nebraska is a truly global institution--engaged in work that matters to the people of Nebraska, but with the power to solve some of the great challenges of our time."

My story is like those of so many other Nebraskans. I grew up on my family’s farm and became the first in my family to attend a four-year college. The connection was instant and lifelong. I’ve been blessed to earn three degrees from the University since then, and to have served in roles that have given me the opportunity to meet, learn from and celebrate achievements with countless students, faculty, staff, and partners across the state and beyond. I’ve come to appreciate the University of Nebraska’s role as a truly global institution, engaged in work that matters first to the people of Nebraska but with the power to solve some of the great challenges of our time: hunger, national security, cancer and infectious disease.

"As we look ahead to meeting the critical workforce and quality of life needs of our state, our founding principles will be as important as ever."

We’re able to have that kind of impact because of you. With your support and engagement, we have built a 150-year tradition of access and excellence for Nebraskans, touching every county in the state and opening the doors of higher education to young people who may not otherwise have the opportunity. As we look ahead to meeting the critical workforce and quality of life needs of our state, our founding principles will be as important as ever. Higher education is one of the most powerful forces for growth and change that our state has. I’m confident that together with our partners in government, education, business and agriculture, we can build a strong future for our children and grandchildren.

I invite you to contact me at president@nebraska.edu with your comments and ideas. Thank you for your interest and support of the University of Nebraska.

Susan M. Fritz, Ph.D.

Interim President, University of Nebraska